Compensation claims of those affected by the Vasco market fire will be scrutinised tomorrow at 10 am, South Goa Collector Egna Cleetus said. A government help desk operating since 9 am today has received a list of 89 affected persons, with more time being allowed for registration of the remaining affected. The market association has estimated that around 145 vendors are likely to have been affected due to the blaze. The scrutiny committee, comprising the SDM, Police Inspector, Mormugao Municipal Chief Officer and market association representatives, will verify claims and examine subletting and other issues before forwarding them to the government for release of compensation. CM Pramod Sawant will later announce the compensation amount and other details, the Collector added. Authorities are also examining two proposals for temporary relocation: an alternative site already identified and space within. the existing market structure, subject to structural safety clearance. A decision will follow inspections and a feasibility assessment, Cleetus said.The developments followed a high-level review meeting at the Mormugao Municipal Council CS, local MLAs, senior officials and market representatives.Police are continuing their investigation into the cause of the fire, informed the Collector.
